My Child Was Just Diagnosed… Now What?
Receiving an autism diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions: relief, worry, confusion, or all three at once. That is completely normal, and you do not have to figure everything out today. This free workshop offers a clear, compassionate starting point for families in New Jersey, walking you through what the diagnosis means, what types of support may help, and what practical steps you can take next. Whether your child was just diagnosed or you are still early in the process, this session is designed to help you feel a little more informed and a little less overwhelmed.
What You’ll Learn:
- What an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis means, and what it does not mean for your child’s future
- Why autism is best understood as a profile of individual strengths and support needs, not a single point on a line from “mild” to “severe”
- Common early signs and developmental differences families may notice
- Practical first steps to take in the 30 days after a diagnosis, including records to gather and who to contact
- An overview of support options that may help, including ABA, speech and feeding therapy, occupational therapy, and early intervention
- How New Jersey’s school system and IDEA protections apply if your child is age 3 or older
- A general look at how services may be funded, including insurance, public programs, and school-based supports
- Reassurance and encouragement: your child is still your child, and a diagnosis gives you information and a starting point, not a label
